Student Assistant Duties

Student assistants are needed at colleges and universities.

Student assistants are employed in colleges and universities and are assigned to perform a range of administrative and clerical duties. These positions give students an opportunity to gain experience before applying for full-time jobs after graduation. Student assistants work across a range of subject departments and also in general student support services, such as in the library or finance department.

1. General Duties

A student assistant photocopies documents for distribution or filing.

Student assistants may work in computer laboratories, helping students operate software to create word processing documents or to construct graphs, tables or spreadsheets. A student assistant also helps with administrative functions such as photocopying or filing documents for different subject departments. The position may be assigned to tend to the upkeep of campus grounds, to assist campus police with the issuance of parking tickets or to deal with any disruptive behavior. Student assistants may be assigned to greet campus visitors and to field phone calls from students relating to their subject field or on financial aid issues. A student assistant also organizes bulletin boards and arranges for the outlay of flyers and brochures relating to course programs, as stated on the North Carolina Wesleyan College website.

2. Library Function

Student assistants help organize and maintain library materials.

A student assistant often is employed within a college library to assist with the repair of damaged books, according to the University of Delaware Library website. This role also helps students locate material and ensures displays are kept tidy and in alphabetical order. Inquiries from students relating to book renewals or availability are fielded. This position assists with the ordering of new textbooks for various subject fields, prepares reports for binding and filing in the library records department, maintains microfilm records and assists students in accessing them. A student assistant employed in a library should have good physical stamina to lift boxes of up to 50 pounds, as indicated on the University of Delaware library website.

3. Additional Duties

A student assistant fields telephones calls and inquiries from staff and students.

Student assistants should possess excellent communication skills because they often field reception desk and telephone inquiries from other students and staff members. They also may be assigned to access and maintain student records and library databases, so they should be skilled in basic software applications. Student assistants sort incoming mail, ensure it's distributed to the correct departments and pack envelopes for bulk mailings, as stated on the Fontbonne University website. A person applying for this position should know how to use basic office equipment, such as fax machines, photocopiers and telephone switchboards.

4. Outlook

Student assistants usually are paid minimum wage.

Student assistants' hours may be part-time and the job pays minimum wage rates on average. However, the role entails a significant level of responsibility, so it can be a useful addition to a resume for future job prospects. Positions normally last for one semester. Some schools and colleges have senior, full-time student assistant roles which entail more complex duties and usually require experience.